When might portable fire pumps be used with NFPA 20 systems?

When might portable fire pumps be used with NFPA 20 systems?

• A. As temporary or supplemental sources of water when connected to the system according to code and AHJ approval.
• B. As primary fixed power sources only.
• C. For testing only.
• D. They are not allowed.

Answer: (A)

Portable fire pumps are intended to provide a temporary or supplemental water source for NFPA 20 systems, used when the normal water supply or the system’s power is unavailable or insufficient. They can keep the fire protection system pressurized and ready during construction, maintenance, or emergency conditions, but only when connected to the system in accordance with NFPA 20 and with approval from the Authority Having Jurisdiction. Proper setup includes compliant priming, appropriate intake and discharge connections, and any required backflow prevention or other protections so the system remains safe and compliant while the portable pump is in service. They are not meant as permanent primary power sources for a system, and while they may be used for testing, their main purpose is temporary or supplemental water supply under the approved conditions.

Portable fire pumps are intended to provide a temporary or supplemental water source for NFPA 20 systems, used when the normal water supply or the system’s power is unavailable or insufficient. They can keep the fire protection system pressurized and ready during construction, maintenance, or emergency conditions, but only when connected to the system in accordance with NFPA 20 and with approval from the Authority Having Jurisdiction. Proper setup includes compliant priming, appropriate intake and discharge connections, and any required backflow prevention or other protections so the system remains safe and compliant while the portable pump is in service. They are not meant as permanent primary power sources for a system, and while they may be used for testing, their main purpose is temporary or supplemental water supply under the approved conditions.